Tell me what's working

Geraint Williams, who has worked as a town manager in both Stockton and Redcar, has accepted the post and will start in January.

Mr Williams, who lives in South Kilvington, near Thirsk, with his wife Gwynfa, said he was looking forward to the challenges of the role. "Northallerton is a wonderful town," said Mr Williams, "I have a lot of ideas of my own, and also want to hear what people throughout the whole community would like to see."

Mr Williams came to the region as director of Radio Tees before being appointed town centre manager in Redcar. He served in the role for five years, then moved to Stockton where he was town centre manager for a further six.

He left the Stockton post in July this year to work as a consultant for other towns which were considering appointing a manager.

Mr Williams said he was pleased to be stepping back into the role. "With the experience I have, I thought I had something to offer Northallerton. A town is like a living thing. When it's healthy it can do so much, and when things go wrong it's important to solve the problems. It's a very exciting thing to be part of," he said.

Mr Williams said his initial focus would be on marketing the town centre, increasing the number of visitors and organising festivals and events.

"Northallerton is a fabulous place and we need to safeguard the future of the town for the businesses, community groups and residents. I'm also interested to hear what people would like to see in terms festivals, markets, street entertainment, competitions and other things that can enhance the vibrancy of a town," he added.

Mr Williams said that until he has a permanent office in January, letters could be left for him at the town hall.

"I want people with strong views about the town to get in touch and tell me what is working, what isn't and what they want to see happen," said Mr Williams. "Northallerton belongs to the people who live and work here, and I will do what I can to help them put their ideas into action."